Justice on Trial: Uganda’s Courts Confront Murder, Corruption, and Rights Violations in Pivotal Week
Kampala, Uganda — In a week that exposed both the strengths and fractures of Uganda’s justice system, the country’s courts became arenas of grief, defiance, and reckoning. From high-profile corruption cases and political prosecutions to brutal homicides and constitutional triumphs, legal proceedings held between July 21 and 25 offered a sobering snapshot of a nation wrestling with accountability, impunity, and the rule of law.
A Nation Remembers a Legal Titan
On July 23, the Supreme Court authorized an official state memorial for the late Justice Prof George W. Kanyeihamba, a towering figure in Uganda’s legal history. Under Miscellaneous Cause No. 1 of 2025, the Judiciary will honor his legacy in a commemorative event slated for next month.
Kanyeihamba, a former Supreme Court justice and principal architect of the 1995 Constitution, was praised by Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo as “a fierce defender of judicial independence and human rights.” The memorial will include tributes from regional jurists, affirming his continued influence on constitutional jurisprudence in East Africa.
Horrific Double Murder in Entebbe Unsettles Nation
In Entebbe, the search continues for a suspect behind the gruesome murder of David (69) and Deborah Mutaaga (62), found mutilated in their home on July 6. Police this week released disturbing audio in which the alleged killer confesses, mocking the victims: “You educated your children, but I stayed in the village. I came to kill you.”
Two domestic workers remain in custody, while police have offered a Shs 50 million bounty for the fugitive. President Museveni criticized law enforcement over delayed response, calling for greater vigilance. Mayor Fabrice Rulinda condemned the act as “a targeted message that demands justice—not silence.”
Agnes Nandutu Testifies in Karamoja Iron Sheets Scandal
In a dramatic court appearance on July 25, former minister Agnes Nandutu defended herself against charges stemming from the Karamoja iron sheets scandal. Testifying before Justice Jane Kajuga, Nandutu claimed she received the 2,000 sheets for humanitarian relief in Bududa District, not personal benefit.
Nandutu cited health complications and government delays for the mismanagement that followed. Of the iron sheets, 1,600 were recovered from her property while 383 remain unaccounted for. She said she repaid Shs 26 million, complying with presidential directives.
“I was a first-time minister under immense pressure. I tried to serve my people with the tools I was given,” Nandutu said.
Sipapa Trial Takes New Twist With Fingerprint Evidence
At the Anti-Corruption Court, socialite Charles “Sipapa” Olim and wife Shamirah Nakiyemba face mounting legal pressure in a Shs 1.6 billion robbery case. This week, a forensic expert testified that only one fingerprint from Sipapa was found on a critical piece of evidence, weakening earlier claims.
The case, which includes charges of money laundering and illegal firearm possession, has drawn national attention. Prosecutors also presented exhibits—luxury cars, fake gold, and stacks of US dollars—allegedly tied to the robbery of a South Sudanese businessman. Hearings continue in August.
Noah Mutwe Granted Bail Amid Allegations of Torture
Opposition figure and Bobi Wine bodyguard Noah Mutwe was granted bail on July 22, after spending 60 days on remand. Charged under the Computer Misuse Act, Mutwe is accused of inciting violence and posting threats against the President.
Mutwe alleges he was abducted by plainclothes men, held without charge, and physically abused—claims echoed by the Uganda Human Rights Commission, which ruled his arrest unlawful. Bail was set at Shs 5 million, with travel restrictions imposed. The case resumes on August 25.
Youth Labeled ‘NUP Goons’ Remanded Without Trial
Several young men arrested during political mobilization events in early July were remanded this week after appearing before the Buganda Road and LDC Courts. Some told court they were paid by NRM mobilizers to wear yellow T-shirts and stage confrontations.
Lacking sureties, most remain in detention—several minors were sent to Naguru Remand Home. Human rights groups criticized the arrests, warning against the political labeling of youth without evidence. In a separate clash, Shafiq Kabanjize, a rival candidate, was hospitalized. His opponent Judith Nuwabine denies involvement.
Court of Appeal Affirms Due Process in Landmark Rulings
In a string of notable decisions, the Court of Appeal reinforced constitutional protections for timely justice and fair trial:
- In Mbusa Philimon v Attorney General, the court ruled that delaying appeal documents violated Article 28 and ordered expedited proceedings.
- In Jalia Naiga v Issa Ssekabira, a defense struck out on technical grounds was reinstated, affirming the right to be heard.
- In Mugasa Grace Adyeeri v Commissioner for Land Registration, the court reversed the illegal cancellation of a land title, stressing that land rights must be revoked through proper legal channels.
A Week That Echoes Beyond the Courtroom
From honoring judicial legends to uncovering systemic flaws, Uganda’s courts this week did more than apply the law—they revealed a justice system at a crossroads.
“These cases are not just legal proceedings,” said a senior judicial officer. “They are mirrors held up to a nation confronting its truths—some painful, some hopeful.”
As Uganda heads toward the 2026 elections, how the judiciary navigates political pressures, public trust, and its constitutional mandate will shape the nation’s democratic trajectory.
